The Indian Hills’ Social Studies Department is undergoing significant leadership changes, marking a strategic evolution in its structure. Mr. DelBuono, previously serving as the Ramapo Supervisor of Social Studies and the RIH District Supervisor of Music, has taken on the role of being the sole Supervisor of Social Studies and Music at both Indian Hills and Ramapo High School. Parallel to Mr. DelBuono, Mrs. Johnson has taken on the role of the new Director of the International Studies and Business University Program (UPISB).
In his new position, Mr. DelBuono oversees the curriculum, instructional practices, and assessment methods for social studies across the district. This shift to a single supervisor is part of an ongoing process as teachers or supervisors change positions. Mrs. Leggour, former Supervisor of Social Studies at Indian Hills and UPISB director, reassured the Indian Hills community by explaining, “Mr. DelBuono brings forward decades of experience teaching and supervising Social Studies. Mrs. Johnson has also taught within the IH Social Studies Department and our UPISB for many years.”
Currently, Mrs. Leggour is transitioning to being the District’s Staff Development Coordinator. In her previous role as the Social Studies Supervisor, Mrs. Leggour was responsible for supervising the board-approved curriculum, instructional practices to meet the curricular goals, preparing students for college and work life, and assessment practices. As the former UPISB director, Mrs. Leggour visited classes formally and informally, met with teachers and students, reviewed weekly lesson plans and Quarterly Assessment materials, and evaluated staff members.
The move to a single supervisor at the RIH district, however, does include changes. Mrs. Leggour explains, “Because a District Supervisor works more consistently between both schools it is not possible to instruct classes.” Previously, with separate subject supervisors, Mrs. Leggour taught APUSH 1, U.S. History 1 CP, Critical Global Issues UP, and 21st Century Issues: International Law & Human Rights (UP). While the responsibilities related to overseeing the curriculum, instructional practices, and assessment methods remain, Mrs. Leggour and Mr. DelBuono no longer will be directly teaching students.
Regarding the UPISB, the role of the director will now be shared between the District Social Studies Supervisor, Mr. DelBuono, and the Indian Hills Social Studies Head Teacher, Mrs. Johnson. Mrs. Leggour affirms that “While there is always time for adjustment with any change, I have no doubt that our Social Studies and UPISB programs have been left in caring and capable hands. Mr. DelBuono and Mrs. Johnnson have a deep passion for rigorous teaching and learning, encouraging students to care about the community and world around them, and preparing students for the next steps of their lives outside of RIH.”
This collaborative effort ensures a smooth transition, and despite potential adjustments, both programs are entrusted to experienced and effective educators. As Mrs. Leggour transitions to her new position as the District’s Staff Development Coordinator, she will be planning, coordinating, and providing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff members. Mrs. Leggour explains, “An easy way to think about this position is that I teach the teachers. I will also assist the new Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Articulation, Dr. Quackenbush, with the creation of our District Professional Development Goals, fulfillment of applicable Strategic Planning Goals, and writing and submission of our annual NJDOE reports on our Professional Development and Mentoring programs.”
The trio shares a deep dedication to teaching and learning, fostering a sense of community engagement, and preparing students for their future endeavors beyond the realm of Indian Hills. This transition reflects a commitment to excellence and a strategic adaptation to the evolving needs of the Indian Hills’ Social Studies Department.
